School has officially ended for the year and that now means summer vacation for my teenager is in full affect.  Parents across the world have that one famous question that seems to be one of the most difficult one of all time!  What am I going to do with my kids over the summer! Life as parents don’t stop–we still have to work, run errands, meet deadlines, go to the doctor, cook, clean just to name a few! However children have tested, field trip, tested again and unfortunately seen some horrific events in school with the school shootings. With having a 16 year old son (Ya’ll pray for me), I wanted to be sure that my teenager did not just stay home and play video games. I constantly remind him that you are about to be a grown man in a few years and this comes with responsibility.

Of course his idea of summer vacation is nothing….literally nothing! So being a mom and an entrepreneur I had to put on my thinking cap and find fun and inexpensive ways to bond with him so he can have fun! Here are some of my summer ideas for my teen!

1.Talk and Plan The idea of almost being an adult at the age of 16 is very exciting for him but for me being a mommy—uh sir Im clearly not ready! Yeah its not what you think partna! I try to instill in my him that you can do anything that you put your mind to as long as you work hard for it. Sometimes sitting down talking and showing options really helps put things into perspective. I allow him open space to change his mind as many times as he want….I mean I did!! Most importantly I want him to know that there is an entire world out there for you to see!

2. Take one-on-one time together  The idea of going out with your parents to a teen can seem very boring and embarrassing. However, I try and make our time together as fun as possible. I mean I do stay lit for the kids (wink, wink)!  I let him know I am not your friend….but I am your mom and I love getting to know you. We particularly love going to the movies! I mean what is more fun than getting popcorn with extra butter, a large drink and candy? LOL…Yeah we go to eat snacks! 

3. Take interest in the things that they enjoy – I DO NOT LIKE THE HEAT!!! But my oldest baby LOVES football. That means practices, many games, traveling and my house smelling like WHY me? Sometimes Im not able to attend all of his games and practices due to work but over the years I have learned to take the time to talk to him about his passion. Although he explains to me a million times all the different plays, calls and his position, I still don’t get it but I make sure he knows that I care about his interest.

4.  Focus on enjoying the summer days together! Often times we get so consumed in life that we want to rush our kids back to school. Now don’t get me wrong, I scream for August (start of school) at least 3 or 4 times a day. But this summer I wanted my kids to enjoy theirselves. We have many adventures planned for this summer including traveling back to my hometown, going to one of his favorite places Fun Spot and of course the beach and lots of shopping. Along with many fun adventures we are also preparing for his first job, opening his own checking and savings account and becoming a sophomore.

What are your summer plans? 

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